New research initiatives for advancing hybrid intelligence research at the University of Oulu have been chosen for year the 2026

Hybrid Intelligence New Research Initiatives (NRI) winning projects have been chosen. Five initiatives by University of Oulu researchers will get funding for the period of January 2026 to September 2026.
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We received a total of 35 high-quality applications for Hybrid Intelligence NRI call 2026, reflecting the vibrant and innovative research community within our university.

Following a thorough evaluation process, we are pleased to announce the selection of the following five projects and awards:

  • Enhancing Healthcare Education through Hybrid Intelligence: Integrating a Metacognitive Agent in Virtual Reality
    Award: 20 000 €
    Authors Dr. Justin Edwards and Marta Sobocinski
  • Toward Hybrid Intelligence for Deep Cognitive–Affective Understanding in Learning.
    Award: 17 000 €
    Author: Dr. Yante Li
  • Multimodal Interaction and Motivational Intention Characterization (MIMIC)
    Award: 20 000 €
    Author: Dr. Kateryna Zabolotna
  • Advancing Multimodal Contactless Sensing for Semantic Human Understanding in Adaptive Learning and Healthcare Systems
    Award: 19 000 €
    Author: Dr. Constantino Álvarez Casado
  • Emotionally Intelligent Digital Solutions for Pediatric Perioperative Care.
    Award: 20 000 €
    Author: Dr. Heli Kerimaa

The goals and objectives of the Hybrid Intelligence (HI) research program New Research Initiatives (NRI) for Human-AI Co-evolution and Learning initiative are primarily focused on fostering the advancement of research within the hybrid intelligence domain that comprises of four thematic areas:

  • Data and algorithm assisted AI (HI-1),

  • Understanding humans in AI interaction (HI-2),

  • The extended human mind in multi-realities (HI-3),

  • Emerging sustainable effects on the quality of life (HI-4).

These selected projects exemplify the innovative, multidisciplinary spirit of the Hybrid Intelligence research program, which aims to advance human-machine collaboration by fostering mutual understanding and combining the strengths of both in their co-evolutionary processes.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the selected researchers and look forward to supporting your groundbreaking work.

Created 22.1.2026 | Updated 22.1.2026